Wave energy conversion incorporating actuated geometry

ABSTRACT

Described herein are wave energy conversion systems including actuated geometry components. An example system may include at least one body portion configured to transfer wave energy to a power take off device, and at least one actuated geometry component that is connected to the at least one body portion, the at least one actuated geometry component operable to modify a geometric profile of the system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application claiming priority to U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/088,818, filed Apr. 1, 2016, which claimsthe benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/142,113, filed Apr.2, 2015, the entire content of each of which is incorporated herein byreference.

CONTRACTUAL ORIGIN

The United States Government has rights in this invention under ContractNo. DE-AC36-08GO28308 between the United States Department of Energy andAlliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC, the Manager and Operator of theNational Renewable Energy Laboratory.

BACKGROUND

Over the past decade, the marine hydrokinetic energy sector hasexperienced a resurgence in funding and manpower allocated towardsresearch and development. As a whole, the field of wave energy continuesto host a wide diversity of technologies ranging in scale from conceptto prototype.

Work on nearshore, wave energy conversion (WEC) devices has focusedlargely on designs that include a fixed geometrical body and rely oncontrol of the power-take-off (PTO) system to further optimize powerabsorption.

SUMMARY

In one example, a system includes at least one body portion configuredto transfer wave energy to a power take off device, and at least oneactuated geometry component that is connected to the at least one bodyportion, the at least one actuated geometry component operable to modifya geometric profile of the system.

In another example, a method includes harvesting wave energy using awave energy conversion system that includes at least one actuatedgeometry component, receiving, by a processor, at least oneenvironmental condition value, and determining, by the processor,whether the at least one environmental condition value surpasses athreshold. The method may further include, responsive to determiningthat the at least one environmental condition surpasses the threshold,modifying, by the processor and based on the at least one environmentalcondition value, a geometric profile of the wave energy conversionsystem by operating the at least one actuated geometry component.

The details of one or more examples are set forth in the accompanyingdrawings and the description below. Other features, objects, andadvantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and fromthe claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a graphical plot illustrating depth parameter versus waveangular frequency.

FIG. 2 is a graphical plot illustrating power versus wave angularfrequency.

FIG. 3 is conceptual diagram illustrating an example WEC system, inaccordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are conceptual diagrams illustrating views of asimplified WEC system, in accordance with one or more aspects of thepresent disclosure.

FIGS. 5A-5C are graphical plots illustrating example hydrodynamiccoefficients for several pitch angles of the actuated geometrycomponents, in accordance with one or more aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIGS. 6A-6C are graphical plots illustrating example performance resultsof the WEC system shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, without motion constraints,in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 7A-7C are graphical plots illustrating example performance resultsof the WEC system shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, with constraints, inaccordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 8A-8C are graphical plots illustrating example performance resultsof the WEC system shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B with rectangular andelliptical actuated geometry components, in accordance with one or moreaspects of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 9A-9F are graphical plots illustrating a sample set of resultsfrom solving the non-linear problem, comparing wave amplitudes of 0.25and 2 m, in accordance with one or more aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example WEC system, inaccordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example WEC system, inaccordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example WEC system, inaccordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 13A and 13B are conceptual diagrams illustrating cross sectionalviews of a portion of a WEC system, in accordance with one or moreaspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is block diagram illustrating an example wave energy conversionsystem, in accordance with one or more aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating example operations of a WECsystem having actuated geometry components, in accordance with one ormore aspects of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure provides wave energy conversion systems anddevices that have a broad effective operating range and that are betterable to handle hydrodynamic load variation by incorporating actuatedgeometry. Actuated geometry, as used herein, refers to components,surfaces, or other structures that are moveable to change the geometryof a system or device. Examples of changing device geometry may includecreating negative space (e.g., openings or “holes”) within a device,modifying a profile of a device with respect to a free surface,increasing or decreasing a surface area to volume ratio of a device, ormaking other geometrical changes to a device. As one example, a WECsystem may include actuated geometry that can be manually orautomatically controlled and/or that may move in response to externalconditions such as weather or sea state. In this example, the actuatedgeometry may change the dynamic characteristics of the device, enablingthe WEC to avoid overloading during rough seas conditions and/or tobetter optimize energy conversion performance.

WEC designs, as well as material costs, have generally been driven bythe large hydrodynamic loads that such systems need to be able towithstand. Numerous and diverse related art technologies have beenproposed. However, few appear strong enough and versatile enough to gainwidespread penetration. As one example, many WEC systems are narrowbanded, with high extraction efficiencies only around a small frequencyrange about the resonance period. The diverse but narrowly usefultechnologies available today highlight the need for a structuredinnovation approach to the development of wave energy conversionsystems, to achieve an optimal convergence in overall design andoperation.

Typical of many related art WEC designs are large hydrodynamic loads,specifically the added inertia arising from radiation effects. The addedmoment of inertia can shift the resonance period of such devices outsidethe wave range of 5-20 s. In addition, without active power-take-offcontrol measures, the optimum conditions for power extraction may bedifficult to maintain, especially in irregular waves. Therefore,pursuing active-controllable geometries may allow for greater poweroptimization and load shedding for continued operation in larger seastates.

Various aspects of the present disclosure address issues in the art byproviding new device concepts that combine WEC devices and systems withactive control surfaces (i.e., actuated geometry). In some examples, theactive control surfaces may act similar to air foils. By incorporatingactuated geometry as described herein, a wave energy conversion devicemay be able to modify its device profile to reduce hydrodynamic loadingon the device. In addition, actuated geometry may allow a device to tuneits hydrodynamic characteristics to match its resonance period with thecurrent sea state, thereby broadening the effective operating range ofthe device. As a result, wave energy conversion devices incorporatingactive geometry as described herein may operate in larger sea states,where amplitude or structural loading constraints may render related artdesigns unfeasible or even impossible. In other words, by using thetechniques described herein, wave energy conversion devices and systemsmay be better able to handle variation in surrounding weather and waterconditions, while reducing overall cost.

Generally, the hydrodynamic properties of a WEC device, and propagatingpower available, will be affected by the water depth, h. From linearpotential theory, the incident wave potential, ϕ_(I), for a rightpropagating wave is given by:

$\begin{matrix}{{\phi_{I} = {\left\{ {\frac{igA}{\sigma}\frac{\cosh\mspace{14mu}{kz}}{\cosh\mspace{14mu}{kh}}e^{({{\sigma\; t} - {k{({{x\mspace{14mu}\cos\mspace{14mu}\beta} + {y\mspace{14mu}\sin\mspace{14mu}\beta}})}}})}} \right\}}},} & (1)\end{matrix}$where σ is the wave angular frequency, g is gravitational acceleration,k is the wave number, A is the wave amplitude, β is the wave headingmeasured counter clockwise from the positive x-axis, and i is theimaginary unit (i=√{square root over (−1)}). Due to the combined freesurface boundary condition:

$\begin{matrix}{{{\frac{\partial^{2}\phi_{I}}{\partial t^{2}} + {g\frac{\partial\phi_{I}}{\partial z}}} = 0},} & (2)\end{matrix}$the relationship between the wave number and the wave angular frequencymay be calculated by the dispersion relation:σ² =gk tan h kh,  (3)where the solution of Equation (3) can be found in FIG. 1.

The time-averaged power per unit width, P_(w), contained within apropagating wave can be shown to equal:

$\begin{matrix}{{P_{w} = {\frac{1}{2}\rho\;{gV}_{g}A^{2}}},} & (4)\end{matrix}$in which

$\begin{matrix}{{V_{g} = {\frac{1}{2}{\sqrt{\frac{g}{k}\tanh\;{kh}}\left\lbrack {1 + \frac{2\;{kh}}{\sinh\; 2\;{kh}}} \right\rbrack}}},} & (5)\end{matrix}$where ρ is the fluid density and V_(g) is the group velocity. A plot ofpower versus wave angular frequency is shown in FIG. 2, where shorterwavelengths will have greater power in shallow water while, in deepwater, longer wavelengths contain significantly more power. Equation (4)assumes the waves propagate along a constant water depth. Thus,deployment along sloped sea beds should see a reduction in extractablepower due to reflection and frictional losses.

FIG. 3 is conceptual diagram illustrating an example WEC system (e.g.,WEC system 2), in accordance with one or more aspects of the presentdisclosure. FIG. 3 is not to scale. WEC system 2 represents one exampleof an oscillating surge WEC system that incorporates actuated geometryas described herein. In the example of FIG. 3, WEC system 2 includesbody 4, power take off (PTO) device 6, and actuated geometry components8A-8C (collectively “actuated geometry components 8”).

In the example of FIG. 3, body 4 is a generally a flat, plate-likestructure configured to absorb wave energy by moving with surging water.Consequently, WEC system 2 may be placed in the water such that asurface of body 4 may be perpendicular to the cyclical motion generatedby passing waves. As shown in FIG. 3, for instance, surface 4A of body 4is positioned approximately perpendicular to the motion generated by thewaves—left to right and right to left in FIG. 3.

As waves move the water around WEC system 2, body 4 may experience aforce in the direction of the surging water. The lower edge of body 4 isattached to and rotates around PTO device 6, as shown in FIG. 3.Consequently, the waves may force body 4 to move back and forth, therebycreating rotational energy within PTO device 6.

PTO device 6, in the example of FIG. 3, may be any device capable ofcollecting and/or converting the energy absorbed by body 4. Forinstance, PTO device 6 may be an electrical generator configured toconvert the rotational energy received from body 4 into electricalenergy that can be stored or transmitted via electrical cables (notshown). As another example, PTO device 6 may be an air pump orcompressor configured to take air from the surface and compress the air.The compressed air may then be used, for example, to run a turbinegenerator. In other words, PTO device 6 may be any device operable touse the rotational energy received from body 4 and convert the energyand/or store the energy for later conversion.

As shown in the example of FIG. 3, body 4 is punctuated by actuatedgeometry components 8. Actuated geometry components 8 may be slats thatcan essentially act as part of body 4 (e.g., as part of surface 4A) toreceive wave energy. However, actuated geometry components 8 may bemovable to effectively increase or decrease the area of surface 4A. Forinstance, actuated geometry components 8 may be rotated around a vectorlying within the plane of surface 4A. In the example of FIG. 3, thisvector is horizontal, across surface 4A. In some examples, however,actuated geometry components 8 may be rotated around a vertical vector,or around any other vector that at least approximately lies within theplane of surface 4A.

As actuated geometry components 8 are rotated, a surface of each ofactuated geometry components 8 may become more or less parallel tosurface 4A. Consequently, WEC system 2 may provide more or lessresistance to incoming waves thereby managing the loads placed upon body4 of WEC system 2 and/or tailoring the resonant frequency of WEC system2.

In the example of FIG. 3, the cross-section of actuated geometrycomponents 8 is lenticular. In some examples, actuated geometrycomponents 8 may have a rectangular cross section, and ellipsoid orovoid cross-section, or a cross-section of another shape. In someexamples, one or more of actuated geometry components 8 may be rotatedin unison. For instance, each of actuated geometry components 8A, 8B,and 8C may be rotated by substantially the same angle. In otherexamples, each of actuated geometry components 8 may be rotatedindependently or in a graded fashion. As one example, actuated geometrycomponent 8A may be rotated while actuated geometry components 8B and 8Cremain stationary. As another example, actuated geometry component 8Amay be rotated a first angle, actuated geometry component 8B may berotated a second angle, and actuated geometry component 8C may berotated a third angle, such as 80 degrees, 40 degrees, and 20 degrees,respectively. Independent or graded rotation may allow fine-tunedcontrol and/or more accurate load balancing.

In some examples, actuated geometry components 8 may actuate on theirown. For instance, each of actuated geometry components may be shaped,be weighted, and/or use ballast such that stronger or weaker waves causeactuated geometry components 8 to actuate in order to shed excessiveloading.

In some examples, actuation of actuated geometry components 8 may becontrolled, such as by one or more processors or controllers (notshown). The processor(s) may be a part of WEC system 2 or may be remotefrom WEC system 2. In some examples, the processor(s) may controlactuation of actuated geometry components 8 based on user input. Forinstance, a power plant manager may monitor sea conditions and provideuser input to a processor that is communicatively coupled to WEC system2. The processor may receive the user input and cause actuated geometrycomponents 8 to rotate or move based on the user input.

In some examples, one or more processors may automatically actuateactuated geometry components 8. For instance, the processor(s) mayreceive environmental condition information from one or more sensors andcause actuated geometry components 8 to move based on the receivedenvironmental condition information. Examples of environmental conditioninformation may include air temperature information, barometric pressureinformation, time of day, day of the year, tidal conditions, wavefrequency, wave amplitude, water temperature, water depth, watercontent, proximity of life, or any other information about theenvironment surrounding WEC system 2. By monitoring the environment andactuating actuated geometry components 8 based on the changingenvironment, WEC system 2 may more optimally harvest wave energy whilemaintaining safe operating conditions.

By providing a way for WEC systems to change their geometry, thetechniques described herein may allow such systems to better optimizeenergy collection. This may enable such systems to be deployed in awider variety of environments. Furthermore, WEC systems that incorporateactuated geometry components in accordance with the techniques of thepresent disclosure may be better suited to handle harsh sea conditions,such as during storms. During such harsh conditions, related art systemsare often shut down or made to operate in a very limited capacity, inorder to protect the system from overloading. In contrast, becauseactuated geometry components can be used to modify the geometricproperties of WEC systems as described herein, these systems maycontinue operation in sea conditions that may hinder operation of, oreven destroy other systems.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are conceptual diagrams illustrating views of asimplified WEC system (e.g., WEC system 12), in accordance with one ormore aspects of the present disclosure. FIGS. 4A and 4B are not toscale. WEC system 12 represents another example of an oscillating surgeWEC system that incorporates actuated geometry as described herein. FIG.4A shows four different views of WEC system 12. Two with the actuatedgeometry components “closed” (left hand side of FIG. 4A) and two withthe actuated geometry components “open” (right hand side of FIG. 4A).FIG. 4B shows a single view of WEC system 12, as deployed (e.g., in anocean).

The general shape of WEC system 12 may be a simple flat plate. However,a portion of the main body of WEC system 12 is replaced by a set ofidentical, actuated flaps that act similar to airfoils. In someexamples, the flaps of WEC system 12 are allowed to pitch freely abouttheir center of rotation, with the flap pitch angle, φ, measuredpositive clockwise from the radial axis of the body, as shown in FIG.4B.

The geometric shape of WEC system 12 may change through use of theactuated geometry components. However, if the mass is evenly distributedthroughout the device, then the moment of inertia will remain constantand is given by:

$\begin{matrix}{{I_{55} = {{\frac{1}{3}{mH}^{2}} = {\frac{1}{3}\rho_{m}{\forall\; H_{2}}}}},} & (6)\end{matrix}$where I₅₅ is the moment of inertia about the origin, m is the mass ofWEC system 12, H is the height of WEC system 12, ρ_(m) is the massdensity of WEC system 12, and ∀ is the displaced volume of WEC system12. In the example of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the mass density is set to ½ρ toshow a baseline case.

An example set of dimensions for WEC system 12 as shown in FIGS. 4A and4B is provided in Table 1, below.

TABLE 1 Description Variable Unit Water Depth h 10 m WEC Body Height H10 m WEC Body Thickness t ⅓ m WEC Body Thickness w 5 m Number ofActuated n 5 Geometry Components Component Height H_(f) 2 m ComponentWidth w_(f) 4.5 m Component Thickness t_(f) ⅓ m Side Support HeightH_(s) 10 m Side Support Thickness t_(s) ⅓ m Side Support Width w_(s) ¼ m

FIGS. 5A-5C are graphical plots illustrating example hydrodynamiccoefficients for several pitch angles of the actuated geometrycomponents of WEC system 12, in accordance with one or more aspects ofthe present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 5A depicts the ratio of pitchadded moment of inertia to pitch mass inertia for three pitch angles (0degrees, 45 degrees, and 90 degrees), FIG. 5B depicts the pitch addedmoment of inertia and wave radiation damping for the three pitch angles,and FIG. 5C depicts a magnitude and phase of the wave-exciting force forthe three pitch angles. The hydrodynamic coefficients shown in FIGS.5A-5C were obtained using the WAMIT® software, Version 7.0, produced byWAMIT, Inc. of Chestnut Hill, Mass. As seen in FIGS. 5A-5C, when thepitch angle is set to zero (φ=0) the added moment of inertia dominatesand is 25 times the mass moment of inertia. Pitching the actuatedgeometry components to 45 degrees drops the added moment of inertia by afactor of 4 and to 90 degrees, by a factor of 25. Since the mass andrestoring forces are not affected by foil pitch angle, the resonanceperiod may decrease as the actuated geometry components are opened. Thewave-exciting force exhibits a similar trend in magnitude. However, fora pitch angle of 45 degrees, the phase deviates from 0 to 90 degrees asthere is a significant contribution from the real component that arisesfrom the difference in the pressure distribution along the x-axis (asshown in FIG. 4B) as the component is pitched.

It is common practice to calculate the response amplitude operator (RAO)to assess the performance of a wave energy conversion system. For anincident wave described by:

$\begin{matrix}{{{\eta\left( {x,t} \right)} = {{\left\{ {{{- \frac{1}{g}}\frac{\partial\phi_{I}}{\partial t}}\underset{z = 0}{|}} \right\}} = {\left\{ {Ae}^{i{({{\sigma\; t} - {kx}})}} \right\}}}},} & (7)\end{matrix}$where η is the wave elevation, the time-harmonic response of thefloating body, in the j-th direction, is given by:ξ_(j)(t)=

{ξ_(j) e ^(iσt)}  (8)where ξ_(j) is the complex amplitude of motion for the j-th direction.The resulting harmonic motion when allowing for six degrees of freedomcan be described by the following coupled system of linear differentialequations:Σ_(j=1) ⁶[C _(ij)−σ²(l _(ij)+μ_(ij))+iσλ _(ij)]ξ_(j) =F _(i),  (9)where I_(ij) is the generalized inertia matrix, μ_(ij) is the added massmatrix, λ_(ij) is the wave damping matrix, C_(ij) is the restoringmatrix, and F_(i) is the complex amplitude of the wave-exciting force.

As seen in FIG. 4B, WEC system 12 will pitch about the origin, O, whichis fixed to the seabed. The other five modes of motion will beconstrained. The one degree of freedom pitch equation of motion is givenby:

$\begin{matrix}{{\frac{\xi_{5}}{A} = \frac{X_{5}}{\left\lbrack {C_{55} - {\sigma^{2}\left( {I_{55} + \mu_{55}} \right)}} \right\rbrack + {i\;{\sigma\left\lbrack {\lambda_{55} + B_{g}} \right\rbrack}}}},} & (10)\end{matrix}$where B_(g) denotes the linear power-take-off (PTO) damping coefficientrequired for power extraction and X₅ is the complex wave exciting forceper unit wave amplitude (F₅=AX₅). The instantaneous power absorbed bythe PTO is calculated from:

$\begin{matrix}{{\frac{P}{A^{2}} = {{\frac{B_{g}}{A^{2}}\xi_{5}^{2}} = {B_{g}\sigma^{2}{\frac{\xi_{5}}{A}}^{2}{\cos^{2}\left( {{\sigma\; t} + \Theta} \right)}}}},} & (11)\end{matrix}$where |·| denotes the magnitude and θ is the phase of pitch motion. Asthe current analysis is in the frequency domain, it is more appropriateto report the time-averaged power (TAP) absorbed by the PTO system whichis calculated as follows:

$\begin{matrix}{{\frac{P_{TAP}}{A^{2}} = {{\frac{1}{T}{\int_{0}^{T}{B_{g}\sigma^{2}{\frac{\xi_{5}}{A}}^{2}{\cos^{2}\left( {{\sigma\; t} + \Theta} \right)}{dt}}}} = {\frac{1}{2}B_{g}\sigma^{2}{\frac{\xi_{5}}{A}}^{2}}}},} & (12)\end{matrix}$where T is the wave period. Equation (10) can be inserted into Equation(12), allowing for the optimal PTO damping at each wave frequency to becalculated. This results in the following expression:

$\begin{matrix}{{\frac{B_{g}(\sigma)}{\lambda_{55}(\sigma)} = \sqrt{1 + \left( \frac{C_{55} - {\sigma^{2}\left( {I_{55} + {\mu_{55}(\sigma)}} \right)}}{{\sigma\lambda}_{55}(\sigma)} \right)^{2}}},} & (13)\end{matrix}$where, at resonance, B_(g)=λ₅₅. Equation (13) may not, however, takeinto account some physical constraints that can arise in variousdesigns. These additional constraints may lead to unrealistic amplitudesof motion in some cases, which could invalidate the linear assumptionpresented here.

In some examples, a hydrostatic restoring force may be present if theWEC system is positively buoyant (e.g., ρ∀>ρ_(m)∀). Such a hydrostaticrestoring force is calculated from:f _(h)(t)=−(ρ∀r _(b) −mr _(g))g sin θ,  (14)where r_(g) is the center of gravity, r_(b) is the center of buoyancy,and ∀ is the displaced volume. The above equation can be linearized byassuming small amplitude motion and approximating sin θ≈θ. For brevity,the mass distribution is assumed uniform, thus r_(g)=r_(b)=H/2.

FIGS. 6A-6C are graphical plots illustrating example performance resultsof WEC system 12, without motion constraints, in accordance with one ormore aspects of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 6A depictsthe optimum time averaged power and normalized capture width for threepitch angles (0 degrees, 45 degrees, and 90 degrees), FIG. 6B depictsthe unconstrained RAO magnitude and phase with the power-take-offdamping obtained from Equation (13) for the three pitch angles, and FIG.6C depicts the unconstrained optimum PTO damping and its ratio with wavedamping for the three pitch angles. The amplitude of pitch motion perwave slope is greatest for the closed configuration. As seen in FIGS.6A-6C, these results include three distinct peaks, which correspond tothe shifting resonance frequency as the actuated geometry components ofWEC system 12 are opened. However, the frequency of oscillation issignificantly reduced, leading to comparable energy production. Theseresults indicate that device performance can be tuned over a wideoperating range.

As described herein, the optimal conditions for power absorption mayrequire unconstrained motion and an adequate PTO. However, in practice,physical limitations such as a hydraulic stroke length may constrain adevice's maximum amplitude of motion. Furthermore, as seen from FIG. 6C,the optimum performance of the closed flap configuration of WEC system12 may require a PTO system that can deliver a linear dampingcoefficient that is nearly 20 times that of the fully open configurationwhen operating in the high frequency regime. However, both open flapconditions only require a maximum PTO rotational damping of about 2MNm·s. In order to address these concerns, the PTO damping may beiterated to limit the magnitude of Equation (10) to one with an upperlimit of 2 MNm·s.

FIGS. 7A-7C are graphical plots illustrating example performance resultsof WEC system 12 with constraints, in accordance with one or moreaspects of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 7A depicts theconstrained time averaged power and normalized capture width for threepitch angles (0 degrees, 45 degrees, and 90 degrees), FIG. 7B depictsthe constrained RAO magnitude and phase for the three pitch angles, andFIG. 7C depicts the constrained PTO damping and its ratio with wavedamping for the three pitch angles. These constraints can cause adramatic reduction in power production as seen in FIG. 7A, though properdevice geometry and PTO configuration can provide 25 kW/m² at minimumover the operating frequency range. The upper limit on the PTO may onlyaffect the fully closed actuated geometry components, providing only asmall frequency window where the PTO is not fixed at the upper limit.The PTO damping may also experience a hump about each resonance perioddue to the motion constraint, as shown in FIG. 7C.

In some examples, the rectangular cross section of the actuated geometrycomponents of WEC system 12 may generate a large amount of vortexshedding (e.g., due to the sharp edges). A more streamlined shape may beused to prevent wave power from being dissipated in eddies, rather thanabsorbed by the PTO. Modeling of this viscous phenomenon and its effecton power performance is presented later herein.

In accordance with the techniques described herein, some WEC systems mayinclude actuated geometry having rounded rather than rectangular crosssections. For instance, instead of the rectangular cross sections shownin FIGS. 4A and 4B, WEC system 12 may have actuated geometry componentswith a semi-major axis of about 1 m and a semi-minor axis of about ⅙ m.

FIGS. 8A-8C are graphical plots illustrating example performance resultsof WEC system 12 with rectangular and elliptical actuated geometrycomponents, in accordance with one or more aspects of the presentdisclosure. The same constraints on the RAO and PTO rotational dampingwere applied. Specifically, FIG. 8A depicts the constrained timeaveraged power and per wave exciting force amplitude for rectangular andelliptical cross sections, FIG. 8B depicts the constrained PTO dampingand its ratio with wave damping for the two cross sections, and FIG. 8Cdepicts the ratio of hydrodynamic coefficients for the two crosssections. The change in cross section from rectangular to elliptical maylead to a decrease in the flap displaced volume by approximately 20percent. The most significant result from the comparison is the nearly40 percent drop in time averaged absorbed power, as shown in FIG. 8A.However, to account for the decrease in displaced volume, the TAP wasdivided by the amplitude of the wave exciting force, providingcomparable results. As previously discussed, the change in cross sectiondecreased the wave damping by over 50 percent, increased moment ofinertia by 33 percent, and increased the wave-exciting force magnitudeby 40 percent.

In some examples, actuated geometry components may be actuated insynchronization. In some examples, however, a simpler control of theactuated geometry components may include moving the componentsindependently. This may allow for configurations where some components(e.g., the top flap or top two flaps of WEC system 12) are pitched to 90degrees while others are not. It would not be unexpected to see fiveresonance peaks accounting for each additional component opened. Simpleindividual control may allow the device performance to be maximized overthe range of about 7-16s wave periods, where an average value of about40 kW/m² is obtainable. Furthermore, as the actuated geometry componentsare opened, the structural loading on the device is reduced, which mayallow for loading constraints to be maintained. In addition, variouswave prediction methodologies may be used to reduce peak loads.

The results of modeling the different component cross sections alsosuggest that the fifth (bottom) component of WEC system 12 may havelittle influence on the device performance. That is, there is only asmall range where greater power is absorbed when compared to the4-component configuration. However, the addition of the fifth componentdoes provide a significant reduction in hydrodynamic loading. As aresult, in some example embodiments, some actuated geometry componentsmay be fixed under normal operation. Furthermore, in extreme seaconditions, some actuated geometry components can be feathered to reduceloading. However, it may be beneficial in some examples to permanentlyfix one or more of the actuated geometry components, in order to addstructural rigidity and eliminate additional rotational actuatorsthereby reducing the overall system complexity.

The inviscid assumption (e.g., ignoring viscous effects) used so farmay, in some instances, lead to over prediction of the motion andabsorbed power of the devices and systems described herein. Modeling theviscous drag moment (e.g., of WEC system 12) may improve accuracy. Thismodeling begins with Morison's equation:

$\begin{matrix}{{{f_{d}(t)} = {{- \frac{1}{2}}\rho\;{C_{D}\left( {r,\varphi} \right)}{A_{p}\left( {r,\varphi} \right)}r\;{\overset{.}{\theta}(t)}{{r\;{\overset{.}{\theta}(t)}}}}},} & (15)\end{matrix}$where f_(d) is the drag force and C_(D) is the drag coefficient, whichis a function of pitch angle and potentially of the radial position.A_(p) is the projected area of the actuated geometry component normal tothe rotational velocity of the WEC system, |·| denotes the absolutevalue, and r denotes the position of the drag element along the radialaxis. The moment generated by taking a differential slice of the WECalong the xy-plane is given by:

$\begin{matrix}{{{dM}_{d}\left( {t,\varphi} \right)} = {{- \frac{1}{2}}\rho\; C_{D}w_{f}{\overset{.}{\theta}(t)}{{\overset{.}{\theta}(t)}}r^{3}{dr}}} & (16)\end{matrix}$where M_(D) is the drag induced moment and dr is the differential unitalong the radial axis. In order to obtain the total drag moment, theabove equation must be integrated over the height of WEC system 12:

$\begin{matrix}{{M_{d}\left( {t,\varphi} \right)} = {{- \frac{1}{2}}\rho\; C_{D}w_{f}{\overset{.}{\theta}(t)}{{\overset{.}{\theta}(t)}}{\int_{0}^{H}{r^{3}{{dr}.}}}}} & (17)\end{matrix}$

Equation (17) can be integrated directly if the actuated geometrycomponents are closed. However, as the components are pitched, theprojected area will need to be adjusted. The change in projected areawith component pitch angle can be modeled as:A _(p)(φ)=2w _(f)(a|cos φ|+b|sin φ|),  (18)with the bounds of integration in Equation (17) set to:r=r _(ci)±(a|cos φ|+b|sin φ|),  (19)where r_(ci) is the radial position of the center of rotation of thei-th component. The total drag moment is the summation over the totalnumber of actuated geometry components:

$\begin{matrix}{{{M_{d}\left( {t,\varphi} \right)} = {- {\sum\limits_{i = 1}^{N}\; M_{di}}}},} & (20) \\{M_{di} = {{\frac{1}{8}\rho\; w_{f}{C_{D}(\varphi)}{\theta(t)}{{\theta(t)}}r^{4}}|_{r_{ci} - {({{a{{\cos\;\varphi}}} + {b{{\sin\;\varphi}}}})}}^{r_{ci} + {({{a{{\cos\;\varphi}}} + {b{{\sin\;\varphi}}}})}}.}} & (21)\end{matrix}$

The drag coefficient may be assumed to be constant over the actuatedgeometry component. An appropriate choice of C_(D) (φ) as the projectedarea is reduced by a factor of up to ⅙ may be an important considerationfor accurate modelling.

The viscous drag may be addressed in various example systems anddevices, in order to avoid a reduction in the power capture efficiency(e.g., by up to 60 percent for the largest wave amplitude). The ratio ofthe velocity magnitude over the wave slope may be nearly equivalentbetween the four geometries. The absorbed power has local maximums foreach configuration. However, a 2-component configuration may be the mostrobust over the frequency range.

In some examples, the rotational velocity from Equation (17) may besubtracted by the undisturbed fluid orbital velocity. A non-linear timedomain model can be constructed to ascertain the effect of the modellingapproximation. The results of such a model show only minor differences,however.

A frequency domain analysis cannot be used to model non-linear systems.However, by linearizing the non-linear terms, a spectral analysis in thefrequency domain may also be used to estimate the performance of devicesand systems as described herein.

For sinusoidal waves that may be experienced in some examples, thetorque generated by the non-linear drag term may be substituted with alinear term using the Lorentz linearization. This method consists ofensuring the work done over one wave cycle is the same for both linearand non-linear expressions and can be represented by:

Λ{dot over (θ)}²

=

Λ_(nl)|{dot over (θ)}|{dot over (θ)}²

,  (22)where

·

stands for the average over one wave cycle, Λ is the linearized viscousdamping coefficient, and Λ_(nl) is the non-linear viscous dampingcoefficient. The result from integrating both terms in Equation (22)over one wave cycle provides the following expression for the linearizeddamping coefficient:

$\begin{matrix}{\Lambda = {\frac{8{\xi_{5}}\sigma}{3\pi}{\Lambda_{nl}.}}} & (23)\end{matrix}$

The linearized viscous damping coefficient can now be inserted intoEquation (10), leading to:

$\begin{matrix}{\frac{\xi_{5}}{A} = {\frac{X_{5}}{\left\lbrack {C_{55} - {\sigma^{2}\left( {I_{55} + \mu_{55}} \right)}} \right\rbrack + {i\;{\sigma\left\lbrack {\lambda_{55} + B_{g} + \frac{8{\xi_{5}}{\sigma\Lambda}_{nl}}{3\pi}} \right\rbrack}}}.}} & (24)\end{matrix}$

A result of the substitution is the presence of the device amplitude ofmotion on both sides of the equation. An iterative-zero solver may beused, but the response is no longer invariant to the incoming waveamplitude. It is possible to combine Equations (12) and (24), withslight modifications, to form a constrained non-linear optimizationproblem. The problem can be solved, for example, using the functionfmincon in the MATLAB® software produced by MathWorks of Natick, Mass.

FIGS. 9A-9F are graphical plots illustrating a sample set of resultsfrom solving the non-linear problem, comparing wave amplitudes of 0.25and 2 m, in accordance with one or more aspects of the presentdisclosure. Specifically, FIGS. 9A and 9D depict the constrained of timeaveraged power and normalized capture width for four actuated geometrycomponent configurations using the non-linear optimizer with A=0.25 mand A=2 m respectively. FIGS. 9B and 9E depict the constrained RAOmagnitude and pitch amplitude for the four configurations using thenon-linear optimizer with A=0.25 m and A=2 m, respectively. FIGS. 9C and9F depict the constrained optimum PTO damping for the fourconfigurations using the non-linear optimizer with A=0.25 m and A=2 m,respectively.

For the modeling of FIGS. 9A-9F, a maximum pitch amplitude of 30 degreeswas set and the PTO damping was limited to 0.75 MNm·s. As shown in FIG.9A, the power capture efficiency may be the greatest, since the incomingwave amplitude is too low to reach the imposed motion constraints andthus the body is allowed to oscillate freely. In this regime theactuation of the actuated geometry components may be desired in order tomaximize power absorption. The response of the four different componentconfigurations can be seen in FIG. 9B, where the typical resonant motionis still observed with the four-component configuration. The optimum PTOdamping, shown in FIG. 9C, evidences a minimum at each resonantfrequency. However, due to the presence of the viscous dampingcontribution it does not equal the wave damping.

FIGS. 9D-9F correspond to the wave amplitude being increased to 2 m. Asshown in FIG. 9D, for certain configurations and wave conditions,solutions are not plotted. FIG. 9E shows both the three- andfour-component configurations approaching the upper limit on pitchmotion. As seen in FIG. 9F, the damping magnitude for both the three-and four-component configurations may be large enough to control thedevice. However, for the other configurations, the PTO damping may beunsuccessful at reducing the motion amplitude below 30 degrees. As such,in some examples, the 3 flap configuration may be better suited toremain in operation while still optimizing power absorption. In thisregime the actuated geometry components are successful at sheddinghydrodynamic loading.

The techniques of the present disclosure provide improved systems anddevices for wave energy conversion by combining a WEC with activecontrol surfaces referred to herein as actuated geometry. The controlsurfaces or actuated geometry may be similar to air foils that have theability to alter the geometry normal to the particle velocity of waves.These control surfaces may thus be useable to reduce hydrodynamicloading while allowing for operation in a larger range of sea states.The devices and systems have also been shown to be effective at tuningthe hydrodynamic characteristics to match the sea conditions allowingfor optimum power extraction.

For example purposes only, the analysis presented herein has focused onregular waves, while assuming the PTO provides a constant and continuousdamping coefficient. However, active control of the power-take-offsystem may additionally or alternatively be used to further optimizepower absorption.

The techniques described herein were evaluated using traditional linearfrequency domain techniques. The performance sensitivity to actuatedgeometry component pitch angle, component cross section, and number ofactivated components have been considered and addressed. The presentdisclosure further elaborates by introducing nonlinear hydrodynamics—forexample, viscous drag forces. A nonlinear time-domain model was used toexamine how performance varied with wave height. The viscous dragcontribution was then linearized using the Lorentz theorem allowing forthe construction of a nonlinear optimization problem that incorporatedmotion and power-take-off constraints. The result of which highlightedthe ability of some systems configured in accordance with the techniquesdescribed herein to adapt to various wave climates, specifically howsome of the designs may be effective at reducing hydrodynamic loadingfor continued operation.

FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example WEC system(e.g., WEC system 52), in accordance with one or more aspects of thepresent disclosure. FIG. 10 is not to scale. WEC system 52 representsone example of an oscillating pitch WEC system that incorporatesactuated geometry as described herein. That is, WEC system 52 may usepitching motion to store and/or convert wave energy. As shown in theexample of FIG. 10, WEC system 52 includes body portions 54A-54C(collectively “body portions 54”), PTO devices 56A and 56B (collectively“PTO devices 56”), and actuated geometry components 58A and 58B(collectively “actuated geometry components 58”). Optionally, WEC system52 may include structural support 59 in some examples.

In the example of FIG. 10, body portions 54 are floating structures thatabsorb wave energy and turn it into kinetic energy. Body portions 54 maybe formed in any suitable shape, and of any suitable material. Forinstance, body portions 54 may be spheres made of a plastic, cylindricalmetal drums, or any other shape. Body portions 54 may be solid, orhollow. In some examples, body portions 54 may be filled with air, withfoam, or with any other material useful to provide buoyancy. While shownin FIG. 10 as including only 3 body portions, WEC system 52 may, inother examples, include more or fewer body portions. For instance, WECsystem 52 may include a two dimensional grid of body portions,interconnected by actuated geometry components. Body portions 54 mayfloat upon the water surface, moving up and down in approximately avertical direction as tides (e.g., waves) flow left and right.

PTO devices 56 may store and/or convert the kinetic energy of bodyportions 54 (e.g., into electrical energy or another energy form). Inthe example of FIG. 10, PTO devices 56 are connected to actuatedgeometry components 58 which are disposed between body portions 54. Insome examples, PTO devices 56 may be rotational power systems that storeor convert energy when they are rotated. As waves pass WEC system 52,body portions 54 may rise or fall unequally, causing actuated geometrycomponents 58 to be at an angle. As a result, PTO devices 56 may rotateand store or convert this angular kinetic energy.

Actuated geometry components 58, in the example of FIG. 10, includerigid or semi-rigid connections that connect body portions 54 to oneanother. In some examples, actuated geometry components 58 may alsoinclude means for lengthening or shortening the length of theconnections. For instance, actuated geometry components 58 may includeone or more motors, hydraulic pistons, springs, cranks, or other means.In some examples, the motor or means may be situated within at least oneof body portions 54. Actuated geometry components 58 may be operable tomodify the length of the connections between body portions 54, in orderto increase or decrease the distance between body portions 54 (shown asvariable X in FIG. 10). That is, the motor or other means may be used toextend or retract the connectors in order to increase or decrease thedistance between body portions 54.

For systems similar to WEC system 54, maximizing the energy extractionmay entail matching the natural frequency of oscillation about PTOdevices 56 to oncoming wave frequency. One or more of the mass, addedmass, hydrostatic stiffness, PTO device stiffness and damping, andpositions of the centers of gravity (cg) with respect to the PTO devicesmay all be factors in determining the natural frequency and mode shapesof such systems. The techniques described herein uses variable lengthconnecting arms between PTO devices 56 and body portions 54 to controlthe natural frequency—matching the oncoming wave frequency as itchanges. Furthermore, actuated geometry components 58 may be operated toreduce structural loads. As one example, actuated geometry components 58may extend the distance between body portions 54 when the wave amplitudeis above a threshold, in order to ensure that PTO devices 56 are notoverstrained.

FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example WEC system(e.g., WEC system 62), in accordance with one or more aspects of thepresent disclosure. FIG. 11 illustrates a cross section of WEC system62, and is not to scale. WEC system 62 represents one example of anoscillating water column-type WEC system that incorporates actuatedgeometry as described herein. As shown in FIG. 11, WEC system 62includes body portions 64A and 64B (collectively “body portions 64”),PTO device 66, and actuated geometry components 68A-68C (collectively“actuated geometry components 68”).

In the example of FIG. 11, body portions 64 form a tube-like structure.The tube-like structure has a first end (e.g., at which actuatedgeometry components 68A and 68B are located) and a second end (e.g., atwhich PTO device 66 and actuated geometry component 68C are located). Asshown in FIG. 11, the first end of the tube-like structure formed bybody portions 64 is substantially open while the second end of thetube-like structure is substantially closed. That is, matter is allowedto enter and exit the first end of the tube-like structure relativelyfreely while the second end is almost entirely sealed. In the example ofFIG. 11, the second end of the tube-like structure formed by bodyportions 64 sits above the surface of the water, and thus the tube-likestructure has an air pocket.

Body portions 64, in the example of FIG. 11, may be formed of plastic,metal, cement, or any other suitable material. Body portions 64 may bebuilt sufficiently sturdy to withstand the variations in normal seaconditions. In some examples, one or more of body portions 64 may bepermanently tethered or anchored in place. In other examples, bodyportions 64 may be moored and more mobile.

In the example of FIG. 11, PTO device 66 may store and/or convert energyfrom the force exerted by water and/or air within body portions 54. Forinstance, PTO device 66 may be a turbine generator or air compressor.While shown as including only a single PTO device 66 in the example ofFIG. 11, WEC system 62 may, in other examples, include two or more PTOdevices.

Actuated geometry components 68, in the example of FIG. 11, each includean extension piece, capable of extending certain ones of body portions64. In some examples, actuated geometry components 68 may also includemeans for extending and/or retracting the respective extension piece.For instance, actuated geometry components 68 may include an electricmotor, a hydraulic piston, a spring, a crank, or any other suitablemeans for extending and/or retracting the respective extension piece.

Actuated geometry components 68 may be made of any suitable materialsand structures. For example, actuated geometry components 68 may beplastic walls that, when retracted, are stored within body portions 64.When extended, the plastic walls may protrude from body portions 64,effectively extending body portions 64 themselves. As another example,actuated geometry components 68 may be accordion-like structures thatcollapse when retracted and expand when extended. Actuated geometrycomponents 68 may be operated to modify the geometry of body portions64. For instance, actuated geometry components 68 may be operated tomodify a length of the tube-like structure created by body portions 64,a cross-sectional area of at least a portion of the tube-like structure,and/or a cross-sectional shape of at least a portion of the tube-likestructure.

In the example of FIG. 11, the tube-like structure of WEC system 62 maycontain an internal water column (sometimes referred to as a “slug” ofwater). The water column may be driven by tides (e.g., water surgingwith waves, from left to right and/or right to left in FIG. 11). As thewater column moves, fluid (e.g., air) may be driven through PTO device66. In some examples, PTO device 62 may use the fluid motion to turn agenerator and produce power.

To optimize power capture of systems such as WEC system 62, the naturalfrequency of resonance of the water column in the device should closelymatch the frequency of the oncoming waves. The natural frequency of suchsystems may depend on the mass of the water column and the internal freesurface area. The natural frequency may also influenced by the size ofany internal compressible fluid pocket.

Actuated geometry components 68 may be used to change the geometry ofWEC system 62 in order to control the mass of the water column, changethe internal free surface area, and/or change the size of the internalcompressible fluid pocket. For instance, actuated geometry components68A and/or 68B may be operated to modify a length of the tube-likestructure at the first end, thereby controlling the mass of the watercolumn within and/or changing the internal free surface area. As anotherexample, actuated geometry component 68C may be operated to modify thecross-sectional volume of the tube-like structure at the second end,thereby increasing the volume of compressible fluid in the pocketcontained within the tube-like structure. In some examples, actuatedgeometry component 68C may be a flexible, inflatable material that mayessentially form a bulb at or near the second end of the tube-likestructure, in order to increase or decrease a volume of fluid (e.g., airor water) within the tube-like structure.

FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example WEC system(e.g., WEC system 72), in accordance with one or more aspects of thepresent disclosure. FIG. 12 is not to scale. WEC system 72 representsone example of a point absorber WEC system that incorporates actuatedgeometry as described herein. In the example of FIG. 12, WEC system 72includes body portions 74A-74D (collectively “body portions 74”), PTOdevice 76, and actuated geometry components 78A and 78B (collectively“actuated geometry components 78”).

In the example of FIG. 12, body portions 74A, 74B, 74C, and 74D are avertical spar, a bottom plate, a fixed float, and support struts,respectively. Body portion 74A may provide a column along which bodyportions 74C and 74D (and PTO device 76) may be allowed to move. Thatis, body portions 74C and 74D may not be attached to body portion 74A.

Body portions 74 may be made of any suitable materials, such as metal,composite, plastic, or others. In some examples, the bottom plate (e.g.,body portion 74B) may rest on or be attached to the sea floor. In otherexamples, the bottom plate may hang below the surface, but above the seafloor. That is, in some examples body portion 74B may act as a weightexerting a downward force on WEC system 72. The fixed float (e.g., bodyportion 74C) may include some form of buoyant material, such as foam,air, or other material.

PTO device 76, in the example of FIG. 12, stores and/or converts energyfrom the relative movement between body portion 74A and body portions74C and 74D. PTO device 76 may, for example, be a turbine generator, anair compressor or air pump, or other apparatus configured to storeand/or convert energy.

In the example of FIG. 12, actuated geometry components 78 areadditional floats that integrate into body portion 74C, in order tomodify the shape and/or buoyancy of body portion 74C. For instance, eachof actuated geometry components 78 may include a supplemental float andattached means for raising or lowering the supplemental float. The meansfor raising or lowering the float may be a motor attached to an arm, ahydraulic piston, a spring device, a rope winch, or any other means formoving the supplemental floats.

In the example of FIG. 12, WEC system 72 includes only two actuatedgeometry components. In other examples, point absorber WEC systems mayinclude only a single actuated geometry component or any number ofactuated geometry components.

Point absorber wave energy conversion systems often include a surfacefloat or floats (e.g., body portion 74C of WEC system 72) that reactagainst a heave plate or the seafloor (e.g., body portion 74B). Thenatural frequency of a point absorber system can be determined by themass and the added-mass of the system (e.g., including the float and thespar/plate), the device restoring buoyancy force (which determineshydrostatics stiffness) and the PTO device stiffness and damping.

Through operation of actuated geometry components 78, WEC system 72 hasthe ability to change the geometry of the float (e.g., body portion74C), thus changing hydrostatic stiffness and the added mass propertiesof WEC system 72. In some examples, WEC system 72 may also utilizeactive ballasting to change the mass prosperities of the float. Forexample, WEC system 72 may be able to increase and/or decrease an amountof air and/or water stored within body portion 74C.

FIGS. 13A and 13B are conceptual diagrams illustrating cross sectionalviews of a portion of WEC system 72, in accordance with one or moreaspects of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 13A shows WECsystem 72 with actuated geometry components 78 both in a deployed stateand FIG. 13B shows WEC system 72 with actuated geometry components 78both in a retracted state. FIGS. 13A and 13B are not to scale. Thedifferent shading of body portion 74C and actuated geometry components78 may, in some examples, indicate varying density or buoyancy of thematerials.

In the example of FIGS. 13A and 13B, the bottom of the cross-sectionalshape of actuated geometry components 78 is triangular. In variousexamples, however, actuated geometry components 78 may have across-section of any suitable shape. The shapes, sizes, densities, andnumber of actuated geometry components 78 may be varied in differentexamples, to provide any number of possible options for modification ofthe geometric profile of body portion 74C.

FIG. 14 is block diagram illustrating an example WEC system (e.g., WECsystem 92), in accordance with one or more aspects of the presentdisclosure. WEC system 92 represents any WEC system that incorporatesactuated geometry as described herein. As shown in FIG. 14, WEC system92 includes body 94, one or more PTO devices 96, one or more actuatedgeometry components 98, and processor 99.

In accordance with the techniques described herein, body 94 may be anystructure used to harvest wave energy, such as a wall, a plurality ofconnected floats, a tube-like structure, a buoy-like structure, or anyother wave energy conversion system structure. PTO devices 96 may beconfigured to store and/or convert the energy harvested by body 94 foruse. Examples of PTO devices 96 may include turbine generators, aircompressors or air pumps, electrical generators, hydraulic actuator, orany other device or system for power take off.

As detailed herein, actuated geometry components 98 include mechanicalpieces operable to modify a geometric profile of WEC system 92. Forinstance, actuated geometry components 98 may be operable to modify asurface area of a surface of body 94, a length, width, or height of aportion of body 94, a buoyancy of a portion of body 94, a distancebetween two portions of body 94, or any other geometric property of WECsystem 92.

Processor 99, in some examples, may be used to control and operateactuated geometry components 98. For instance, processor 99 may receiveuser input to modify the geometric profile of WEC system 92, and mayoperate actuated geometry components 98 accordingly. As another example,processor 99 may monitor environmental conditions and automaticallyoperate actuated geometry components 98 based on changing environmentalconditions.

By incorporating actuated geometry components 98, WEC system 92 maycollect wave energy more efficiently by tailoring its resonant frequencyto match current tide conditions. Furthermore, the use of actuatedgeometry components 98 may allow WEC system 92 to better handle adverseconditions while reducing the risk of system overloading.

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating example operations of a WECsystem having actuated geometry components, in accordance with one ormore aspects of the present disclosure. For ease of understanding, theexample operations shown in FIG. 15 are described in the context of WECsystem 92 shown in FIG. 14. In various examples, the operations shown inFIG. 15 may include additional or different operations in accordancewith the techniques described herein.

In the example of FIG. 15, a method includes harvesting wave energyusing a wave energy conversion system that includes at least oneactuated geometry component (102). For instance, WEC system 92, whichincludes actuated geometry components 98, may be used to harvest thewave energy.

The method also includes receiving at least one environmental conditionvalue (104). For example, processor 99 of WEC system 92 may receive data(e.g., from one or more sensors) indicating the value of anenvironmental condition. Environmental conditions may include airtemperature information, barometric pressure information, time of day,day of the year, tidal conditions, wave frequency, wave amplitude, watertemperature, water depth, water content, proximity of life, or any otherinformation about the environment surrounding WEC system 92.

The method further includes determining whether the at least oneenvironmental condition value surpasses a threshold (106). For instance,processor 99 of WEC system 92 may compare the environmental conditionvalue to a threshold to determine whether the value surpasses thethreshold. In some examples, the threshold may be hard coded intoprocessor 99. In some examples, the threshold may be provided as userinput. In some examples, the threshold may be a variable (e.g., storedin a storage device) accessible to processor 99. If the environmentalcondition value does not surpass the threshold (“NO” branch of operation106), actuated geometry components 98 of WEC system 92 may remainunchanged, and WEC system 92 may continue to harvest wave energy.

The method also includes, responsive to the environmental conditionvalue surpassing the threshold (“YES” branch of operation 106),modifying, based on the at least one environmental condition value, ageometric profile of the wave energy conversion system by operating theat least one actuated geometry component. For example, processor 99 mayoperate one or more of actuated geometry components 99 in order tomodify the geometric profile of WEC system 92, as detailed herein. As aresult, WEC system 92 may improve the efficiency of energy harvestingand/or ensure safer operation.

The systems, techniques, and operations disclosed herein may beadditionally or alternatively described by one or more of the followingexamples.

Example 1

A system comprising: at least one body portion configured to transferwave energy to a power take off device; and at least one actuatedgeometry component that is connected to the at least one body portion,the at least one actuated geometry component operable to modify ageometric profile of the system.

Example 2

The system of example 1, further comprising a processor communicativelycoupled to the at least one actuated geometry component, wherein theprocessor is configured to: receive at least one environmental conditionvalue; and operate the at least one actuated geometry component based onthe at least one environmental condition value.

Example 3

The system of example 2, wherein the environmental condition valuecomprises a value of at least one of: an air temperature, a barometricpressure, a water temperature, a time of day, a wave frequency, a waveamplitude, a wave pressure, a water density, or an amount of ambientlight.

Example 4

The system of any of examples 1-3, wherein modifying the geometricprofile of the system comprises modifying an area of a surface of the atleast one body portion.

Example 5

The system of any of examples 1-3, wherein: the at least one bodyportion comprises at least two body portions; and modifying thegeometric profile of the system comprises modifying a distance betweenthe at least two body portions.

Example 6

The system of any of examples 1-3, wherein modifying the geometricprofile of the system comprises modifying a size of the at least onebody portion.

Example 7

The system of any of examples 1-6, wherein: the at least one bodyportion comprises an approximately flat, rectangular frame having afront surface; the at least one body portion includes at least oneopening in the front surface; the at least one actuated geometrycomponent comprises at least one fin disposed within the at least oneopening, the at least one fin having a surface; and the at least one finis configured to rotate with respect to the front surface of therectangular frame, thereby modifying an angle between the surface of theat least one fin and the front surface of the rectangular frame.

Example 8

The system of example 7, wherein: the at least one opening comprises aplurality of openings in the front surface; the at least one fincomprises a plurality of fins, each disposed within a respective one ofthe plurality of openings; and each of the plurality of fins isconfigured to rotate independently of one another.

Example 9

The system of any of examples 7-8, wherein a cross section of the atleast one fin is approximately: linear, rectangular, elliptical, orlenticular.

Example 10

The system of any of examples 1-6, wherein: the at least one bodyportion comprises a first floater and a second floater; the at least oneactuated geometry component comprises a variable length connecterbetween the first floater and the second floater; and the variablelength connecter is configured to modify a distance between the firstfloater and the second floater.

Example 11

The system of example 10, wherein the variable length connectorcomprises: a substantially rigid spar between the first floater and thesecond floater; and at least one extension means, within at least one ofthe first floater or the second floater, operable to modify a length ofthe substantially rigid spar.

Example 12

The system of any of examples 10-11, wherein: the at least one bodyportion further comprises a third floater; and the variable lengthconnecter comprises a first variable length connector; the at least oneactuated geometry component further comprises a second variable lengthconnector between the second floater and the third floater; and thesecond variable length connector is configured to modify a distancebetween the second floater and the third floater.

Example 13

The system of any of examples 1-6, wherein: the at least one bodyportion comprises a tube-like structure that has a first end and asecond end, the first end being substantially open, and the second endbeing substantially closed; the at least one actuated geometry componentcomprises at least one extension piece; and the at least one extensionpiece is configured to modify at least one of: a length of the tube-likestructure, a cross-sectional area of at least a portion of the tube-likestructure, or a cross-sectional shape of at least a portion of thetube-like structure.

Example 14

The system of example 13, wherein: the first end of the tube-likestructure is submerged below a water surface; the second end of thetube-like structure is above the water surface; and the second end ofthe tube-like structure is substantially filled with a compressiblefluid.

Example 15

The system of any of examples 1-14, further comprising the power takeoff device.

Example 16

The system of any of examples 1-15, further comprising a base portionthat connects the at least one body portion to a floor of a body ofwater.

Example 17

The system of any of examples 1-16, wherein modifying a geometricprofile of the system comprises changing a resonant frequency of thesystem.

Example 18

A method comprising: harvesting wave energy using a wave energyconversion system that includes at least one actuated geometrycomponent; receiving, by a processor, at least one environmentalcondition value; determining, by the processor, whether the at least oneenvironmental condition value surpasses a threshold; and responsive todetermining that the at least one environmental condition surpasses thethreshold, modifying, by the processor and based on the at least oneenvironmental condition value, a geometric profile of the wave energyconversion system by operating the at least one actuated geometrycomponent.

Example 19

The method of example 18, wherein the environmental condition valuecomprises a value of at least one of: an air temperature, a barometricpressure, a water temperature, a time of day, a wave frequency, a waveamplitude, a wave pressure, a water density, or an amount of ambientlight.

Example 20

The method of any of examples 18-19, wherein modifying the geometricprofile of the wave energy conversion system comprises at least one of:modifying an area of a surface of at least one portion of a body of thewave energy conversion system; modifying a size of the at least oneportion of the body; modifying a distance between a first portion of abody of the wave energy conversion system and a second portion of a bodyof the wave energy conversion system; and changing a resonant frequencyof the system.

In one or more examples, at least some of the functions described hereinmay be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combinationthereof. If implemented in software, the functions may be stored on ortransmitted over, as one or more instructions or code, acomputer-readable medium and executed by a hardware-based processingunit. Computer-readable media may include computer-readable storagemedia, which corresponds to a tangible medium such as data storagemedia, or communication media, which includes any medium thatfacilitates transfer of a computer program from one place to another,e.g., according to a communication protocol. In this manner,computer-readable media generally may correspond to (1) tangiblecomputer-readable storage media, which is non-transitory or (2) acommunication medium such as a signal or carrier wave. Data storagemedia may be any available media that can be accessed by one or morecomputers or one or more processors to retrieve instructions, codeand/or data structures for implementation of the techniques described inthis disclosure. A computer program product may include acomputer-readable storage medium.

By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable storagemedia can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical diskstorage, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices, flashmemory, or any other medium that can be used to store desired programcode in the form of instructions or data structures and that can beaccessed by a computer. Also, any connection is properly termed acomputer-readable medium. For example, if instructions are transmittedfrom a website, server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable,fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), orwireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then thecoaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wirelesstechnologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in thedefinition of medium. It should be understood, however, thatcomputer-readable storage media and data storage media do not includeconnections, carrier waves, signals, or other transient media, but areinstead directed to non-transient, tangible storage media. Disk anddisc, as used herein, includes compact disc (CD), laser disc, opticaldisc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk and Blu-ray disc, wheredisks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce dataoptically with lasers. Combinations of the above should also be includedwithin the scope of computer-readable media.

Instructions may be executed by one or more processors, such as one ormore digital signal processors (DSPs), general purpose microprocessors,application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmablelogic arrays (FPGAs), or other equivalent integrated or discrete logiccircuitry. Accordingly, the term “processor,” as used herein may referto any of the foregoing structure or any other structure suitable forimplementation of the techniques described herein. In addition, in someaspects, the functionality described herein may be provided withindedicated hardware and/or software modules. Also, the techniques couldbe fully implemented in one or more circuits or logic elements.

The techniques of this disclosure may be implemented in a wide varietyof devices or apparatuses, including a wireless handset, an integratedcircuit (IC) or a set of ICs (e.g., a chip set). Various components,modules, or units are described in this disclosure to emphasizefunctional aspects of devices configured to perform the disclosedtechniques, but do not necessarily require realization by differenthardware units. Rather, as described above, various units may becombined in a hardware unit or provided by a collection ofinter-operative hardware units, including one or more processors asdescribed above, in conjunction with suitable software and/or firmware.

The foregoing disclosure includes various examples set forth merely asillustration. The disclosed examples are not intended to be limiting.Modifications incorporating the spirit and substance of the describedexamples may occur to persons skilled in the art. These and otherexamples are within the scope of this disclosure and the followingclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system comprising: a body comprising anapproximately planar frame having a front surface and at least oneopening extending through the body, wherein the body is configured to:connect to a power take off device; and during operation, transfer waveenergy to the power take off device via movement of the body relative tothe power take off device; a processor configured to receive at leastone environmental condition value; and at least one actuated geometrycomponent that is connected to the body having at least one openinghaving an open position and a closed position, and communicativelycoupled to the processor, wherein the at least one actuated geometrycomponent is configured to: modify the at least one opening based on theat least one environmental condition value, wherein the modifyingresults in a reduction in a force on the system.
 2. The system of claim1, wherein the environmental condition value comprises a value of atleast one of: an air temperature, a barometric pressure, a watertemperature, a time of day, a wave frequency, a wave amplitude, a wavepressure, a water density, or an amount of ambient light.
 3. The systemof claim 1, further comprising a base portion that connects the at leastone body portion to a floor of a body of water.
 4. The system of claim1, wherein modifying the at least one opening changes a resonantfrequency of the system.
 5. A method comprising: harvesting wave energyusing a wave energy conversion system that comprises: a body comprisingan approximately planar frame having a front surface and at least oneopening extending through the body, wherein the body is configured to:connect to a power take off device, and during operation, transfer waveenergy to the power take off device via movement of the body relative tothe power take off device; and at least one actuated geometry componentthat is connected to the body, the at least one actuated geometrycomponent being operable by a processor communicatively coupled to theat least one actuated geometry component to modify at least one of asize of the at least one opening between an open position and a closedposition; receiving, by the processor, at least one environmentalcondition value; determining, by the processor, whether the at least oneenvironmental condition value surpasses a threshold; and responsive todetermining that the at least one environmental condition surpasses thethreshold, operating, by the processor and based on the at least oneenvironmental condition value, the at least one actuated geometrycomponent to modify the at least one opening, wherein the modifyingresults in a reduction of a force on the wave energy conversion system.6. The method of claim 5, wherein the environmental condition valuecomprises a value of at least one of: an air temperature, a barometricpressure, a water temperature, a time of day, a wave frequency, a waveamplitude, a wave pressure, a water density, or an amount of ambientlight.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the force is hydrodynamicloading.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the force is structuralloading.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the modifying the at leastone opening comprises toggling the opening between the closed positionto the open position.
 10. The system of claim 5, wherein the force ishydrodynamic loading.
 11. The system of claim 5, wherein the force isstructural loading.
 12. The system of claim 5, wherein the modifying theat least one opening comprises toggling the opening between the closedposition to the open position.